The Effects of Trauma on Clients and Mental Health Counselors

  • Satcher, D., Friel, S., & Bell, R. (2007). Natural and manmade disasters and mental health. JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association, 298(21), 2540–2542.
    Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
  • Baird, K., & Kracen, A. C. (2006). Vicarious traumatization and secondary traumatic stress: A research synthesis. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 19(2), 181–188.
    Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
  • Shallcross, L. (2012, February). A calming presence. Counseling Today. Retrieved from http://ct.counseling.org/2012/02/a-calming-presence/

Based off these readings, The Assignment (2 pages)

  • Briefly describe the two examples you selected.
  • Explain the potential effects these events may have on the survivors and the first responders.
  • Explain how the counselor’s role may differ in treating a survivor of each of the traumas you selected and how they may differ in treating a first responder to each of the traumas.
  • Explain how a clinical mental health counselor could develop VT or STS in each of these traumatic events. Describe two strategies a clinical mental health counselor might use to mitigate or address VT or STS.